Voting is a right that American citizens 18 years or older can take part in as a way of having their voice heard. In celebration of this right and National Voter Registration Day, Rho Kappa held its annual voter registration drive on Sept. 24 in hopes of encourage seniors of age to vote.

During a time of political turmoil and changing policies, young voters have a lot to decide on and it’s important that they have their voices heard, according to senior Mathew Minor.

“I feel great being able to vote knowing that I have a say in how my country is run,” Minor said. “I believe that I have a voice now to say how I believe the country should be run and by whom.”

In 2019, voters can vote on local bonds and state constitution amendments, but they will also be able to vote in next year’s presidential election, along with congressional elections.

“I think everyone who can should register to vote,” Minor said. “It’s a right that people have fought and died [for] in order to earn and as a U.S. citizen, it is your duty to vote.”

For new voters like Minor, voting is one of the many ways to be involved in politics and a way to be an active citizen in the United States.

 “I definitely plan on voting this year and exercising this wonderful right this country has given me,” Minor said.

Since the increased activity from voters aged 18-29 in the 2018 midterm elections, 36% of eligible voters participated, with a 16% increase from 2014, according to the Washington Post. Continuing this trend is key to having the younger population’s opinions heard, senior Rho Kappa vice president Layla Ismail said.

“I think that it’s important to remind people to register to vote because no matter what they choose to do at least they have the option of voting,” Ismail said.

With over 30 students registering at this year’s drive, Ismail encourages more students to register. 

“To someone who’s unsure about registering — I would do it just because it doesn’t take that long and you don’t want to run out of time and miss out on voting in a bigger election,” Ismail said

Even though the deadline to register to vote in the Nov. 5, the election ends on Oct. 7, Rho Kappa still has forms for those who wish to register. For more information, visit the CPHS Rho Kappa website or contact Rho Kappa Sponsor Jennifer Fortenberry.